Wilmington Parent June 2018 by Seaside Media

JUNE 2018 • FREE

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Our 20

New Hanover, Brunswick & Pender County Families!

COVER KIDS: PARKER AND JACKSON

PRESCHOOLS & CHILDCARE ALTERNATIVE CURRICULA PROVIDER APPRECIATION RESOURCE LISTINGS

FUN GARDENING PROJECTS DIY DAD’S DAY IDEAS SUMMER CAMP GUIDE CALMING CAMP JITTERS

Specializing in dentistry for infants, children, adolescents and children with special needs.

8115 Market Street Suite 204 Wilmington, NC 910.686.1869 306 Dolphin Drive Suite 2 Jacksonville, NC 910.333.0343

growinggrins.com

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Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 1

Angela Kelly

IN THIS ISSUE Publisher/Editor in Chief Keith Jaworski 910-518-0011

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Features Editor Danielle Villegas

E-Mail: danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com

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June 2018

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SPECIAL SECTION: PRESCHOOL & CHILDCARE

22 23 24

14 15 16 19

ALTERNATIVE PRESCHOOL CURRICULA RESOURCE LISTINGS PROVIDER APPRECIATION

DIY IDEAS FOR FFATHER’S DAY SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

FAMILY TRAVEL OUR PETS YOUR HEALTH FIT FAMILY SCHOOL NOTES

PEANUT GALLERY

cover credits Photography by Katie Mathews, www.katiemathewsphotography.com • 910-297-5378 2 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

Public Service Announcements/Calendar Please submit items/photos before the 2nd Friday of the prior month Opinions/Suggestions/Feedback We value our readers opinions — help us to serve you better! Our mailing address is: Wilmington Parent

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or E-Mail: calendar@wilmingtonparent.com

GARDENING MINI PROJECTS

3 EDITOR’S NOTE 4 HAVE YOU HEARD 5 PRODUCT REVIEW 6 CALENDAR 9 CHILDCARE LISTING GUIDE

Nancy Lievre 910-240-3461

Wilmington Parent is published 12 times a year. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication's standards. All contents of Wilmington Parent are protected under copyright. Reproduction of any content requires permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. Wilmington Parent • PO Box 1336, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 © Wilmington Parent 2018 Seaside Media, LLC Complimentary copies of Wilmington Parent are available to the public at various locations in the greater Wilmington area. One copy per family is permitted. Additional copies require the written permission of the Publisher. PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry SKIP TYSON, D.D.S. STEPHANIE HEANEY, D.D.S.

his month, preschoolers participate in their first of many graduations, while high schoolers graduate to a world of independence and adulthood. In between, there are so many years of memories to be made and milestones to reach. Before all that happens, it is important for parents to make wise choices about their children’s first experience with education. This month’s issue focuses on those initial years of childcare and preschool. Learn all about the different ways that childcare centers teach, and if you are thinking about a home daycare, we have some information about that too! Summer vacation is typically a time for trips and adventures, but taking a whole family away for a fun time can be expensive. Don’t let the expense keep you from summertime memories. Our Family Travel section is full of ways to save money while traveling. If you want to stay in town, there are also plenty of free opportunities right here in Wilmington that will keep the whole family busy and happy. Last month, we celebrated the moms, and this month we want all the dads to know how much they are appreciated. No need to spend too much money, we have some amazing do it yourself ways to celebrate all the dads. Enjoy the summer and your family, pretty soon it will be time to head back to school and now is the time to make some sunny memories!

791-7380

2606 Iron Gate Dr. Suite 200,Wilmington, NC surf our website

www.catchasmile.net OPEN SPOTS

FOR TU/THURS 3'S AND TODDLER CLASS

(910) 367-0287 I www.jpawilmington.com I 7888 Market St

Happy Father’s Day!

Danielle

Your physician. Your schedule. Your peace of mind. Dr. Marc Yandle • Dr. Nathan Cook 5710 Oleander Drive, Suite 207 Wilmington, NC 28403 info@docksidepediatrics.com

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910-399-1954 docksidepediatrics.com Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 3

HAVE YOU HEARD….?

Birthday Parties, Kids Programs, Intro to Climbing, Boy/Girl Scouts and other groups welcome

A summer tradition returns to Greenfield Lake Amphitheater! Bring the family and a picnic to enjoy a free live performance. Cape Fear Shakespeare on the Green in association with The City of Wilmington presents The Shakespeare Youth Company performing Romeo and Juliet and Cape Fear Shakespeare on the Green performing The Merry Wives of Windsor. All performances begin at 8pm and gates open at 6:30pm. Opening nights are June 1st and 2nd. Visit www.capefearshakespeare.com for a complete schedule.

910-319-7209

wilmingtonrockgym.com

604 Junction Creek Dr. Wilmington, NC 28412 910-793-2520

www.browningorthodontics.com

Another magical performance this summer that is a must see, is Cinderella! On June 10th at 2pm, at the Wilson Center, the U.S. International Ballet (USIB), featuring 23 professional dancers from 5 countries, performs the beloved ballet, Cinderella. Classically trained youth of the Wilmington Ballet Company will accent the professionals and bring depth to the program. Cinderella will be the first touring performance of the U.S. International ballet. The debut at the Wilson Center will mark a historic event for the international company. It is highly encouraged that you come early to meet characters and enjoying pre-show festivities. Doors open an hour before the show. Do you have a tween at home? A daughter that is in BeTWEEN the little girl you’ve always known and the young lady she is becoming? A boy who is growing in to a gentleman? Cape Fear Cotillion is excited to announce a new program for this age called In BeTWEEN! A series of one day programs for 4th/5th and 5th/6th graders discussing a variety of topics and issues they, and you, are dealing with now. You know how awkward it seems to talk with your kids about puberty and sexual development? Had “the talk”, but glossed over most of it and feel like you probably left a lot out? Not able to get through to them about moodiness or trouble with friends? Hygiene that is suddenly so important? Well, this is a great opportunity to have some help starting these conversations. Lecture and Luncheons will be held at Porters Neck Country Club, with the first on Sunday, June 3rd from 11:00-1:00. Find out more and see all the topics and schedule at www.capefearcotillion.webs.com.

FUNDRAISING FESTIVALS SCHOOLS ATHLETIC EVENTS CORPORATE EVENTS 910.270.2575 | psample@kona-ice.com | www.kona-ice.com

4 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

Is the heat getting to you yet? Cool off with some homemade popsicles! A feast for the eyes and for the tummy, this fresh fruit rainbow popsicle is incredibly simple to create. This all-natural recipe will curb your sweet tooth. Ingredients: • 2 kiwis • 10 large strawberry halves • 1 mango, roughly chopped • 30 blueberries, roughly Directions: 1. Working with one fruit at a time, puree in a small food processor. Rinse the machine out between fruits. 2. Carefully spoon layer by layer of your fruit into each popsicle mold. 3. Cover mold, add sticks and freeze for at least 5 hours or overnight. TIP: Run the molds under warm water to loosen up the popsicles. NOTES: The fruit amounts are approximate, depending on your mold you may need a little more or a little less. You can always add a little water or yogurt to stretch the amount. Have a tip, lead, or just an interesting bit of news to share? I want to hear all about it! Send me an email to danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com.

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PRODUCT REVIEW

GO THE EXTRA MILE

Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Repellent Incense Sticks

for your children

Oh my readers, I love this stuff! I am very wary of anything that claims to naturally ward off pests, not because I adore DEET, I have just rarely seen anything work. I was out working in my garden and being bombarded by bugs, so I decided to give this a try. I set it near where I was working, and surprisingly, the bugs left! These incense sticks have high concentrations of citronella, cedarwood, rosemary, and other oils that naturally combat mosquitoes and it smells great, too. This formula doesn’t contain any DEET or petroleum, and the incense is clean-burning.

HAU Hair Pack The summer weather is great for the mood, not so great for your hair. Most people focus on skin care during the summer months, but these disposable hair caps will help you salvage your hair. They contain a vitaminrich serum that nourishes the scalp, revitalizes dry, damaged, lifeless hair for volume, moisture, shine and repair… it’s like a face mask for your hair. HAU HairPack works on all types of hair, and it mimics popular hair treatments that can cost five times as much at the salon. It’s really easy to use: shampoo, wring out excess hair moisture, place cap over your head, secure the cap using the provided sticker, squish serum into hair and scalp, leave the cap on for 3060 minutes, rinse thoroughly and dry! No need to use conditioner. Check these out at www.koreanhairpack.com.

Dr. Raaj Amin

27417 Andrew Jackson Hwy E, Delco, NC 28436

www.sandpiperpediatrics.com 910-207-0777

GIANTmicrobes Do you have someone in your family graduating from college, high school, middle school, kindergarten, anything? Graduation is the time to honor students for completing a milestone in their education! This huge accomplishment should not go down without a fun, unique gift to let your favorite student know how proud you are of them. These quirky gifts are so oddly cute, I have the plush brain cell and I can’t even stand how adorable it is. From brain and brain cell with an adorable cap and tassel, to bookworm, brainwash soap, neuron earrings and neuron tie - GIANTmicrobes has the perfect gift to help express yourself when you just can’t find the right words. Each microbe includes a printed card with fun, interesting, and educational facts so your graduate can really explore and learn about this invisible life going on in our world today. Humorous, educational, collectible and fun, who wouldn’t want to cuddle up with E.coli or play with a stuffed waterbear and red blood cell? Check these out at www.giantmicrobes.com. v

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Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 5

CALENDAR

• PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH US

JUNE | 2018

ALL MONTH LONG!

2 SATURDAY

Summer Reading Daily, through 8/18. Children ages birth -18 can visit any of the four NHC public libraries to receive an official summer reading bag with a bookmark, reading log, stickers and prize coupons while supplies last. Visit the library often for books & programs.

Riverfront Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Nov 17. Downtown Wilmington. Located in Riverfront Park on Water Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington in front of the Federal Courthouse. Curbside market featuring local farmers, producers, artists and crafters. Products include fresh fruits and berries, vegetables, plants, herbs, flowers, eggs, cheeses, meats, seafood, honey, baked goods, legumes, pickled items, jams and jellies, wine, art, crafts and more.

Play Time! Daily, through 9/1/18. Cape Fear Museum presents Play Time!, an exhibit that explores how we play, create, and use our imagination as children and adults. The display includes items from the museum’s historic toy collection and handson activities ranging from creating art to playing dress-up.

1 FRIDAY Toddler Time - Nature Painting 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. No registration necessary. Projects and activities for our youngest visitors (ages 4 and under) and their special grownups to work on together. Call 2543534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Little Explorers 10am, Fridays. Cape Fear Museum. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Adult participation is required. Little Explorers is sponsored by the PNC Foundation. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Family Yoga Storytime 10:30am, Fridays. Main Library. Parents & children birth - 5 will have fun listening to stories while stretching and learning basic yoga postures with Miss Susan. Children must have an adult present. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or beach towel. No registration required! Call 798-6353 for more details. Adventures in the Arts - Discovering: Eric Carle 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. Please pre-register. Bring your child to express their creativity through various forms of art including--but not limited to--painting, sculpture, music, theater, dance, drawing, and printing. Visit www.playwilmington.org for details. Airlie Gardens Summer Concert Series: Machine Gun 6-8pm. Airlie Gardens. Join us for some outdoor 80’s music by Machine Gun. Seating for concerts is open-lawn, and all outdoors lawn chairs are permitted. Front Street Brewery & Noni Baca Winery will be on-site selling food & beverage items, or bring your own food and enjoy a picnic on the lawn! Open to the public, but tickets must be purchased in advance at www.airliegardens.org. Downtown Sundown Concert Series: Red Zeppelin 6:30pm. Downtown Wilmington. Opening band starts at 6:30, headliner at 8pm. Come down to the river and enjoy these weekly summer concerts! This week enjoy the Led Zeppelin Tribute band Red Zeppelin.

6 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

Wilmington Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays. Tidal Creek. The Port City’s premier local food shopping destination. A producer only market, which means they only sell what they produce! When you purchase something from one of the vendors, you are making a difference by supporting your local food economy. Dedicated to providing an alternative grocery shopping experience where you will find food grown and sold with integrity. Visit www. thewilmingtonfarmersmarket.com for more information. . Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market 8am, Saturdays. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Enjoy a stroll around the lake while picking up some local produce, herbs, plants, crafts. Make a visit to the Farmers’ Market a weekly tradition! Visit the facebook page for more information. Little Explorers 10am, Saturdays. Cape Fear Museum. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Adult participation is required. Little Explorers is sponsored by the PNC Foundation. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Storytime and Activities: Oh, the Places You’ll Go! 11am. Barnes & Noble. With his trademark use of humorous verse and illustrations, Dr. Seuss addresses the ups and downs life presents while encouraging readers to find the success that lies within them all. Activities to follow. Museum Explorers 2pm, Saturdays. Cape Fear Museum. Ignite your curiosity! Discover history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear through interactive science investigations, hands-on exploration and unique artifacts. Our activities are designed to stimulate curiosity and encourage families to have fun together. Themes vary. Ideal for ages 5 and up. Approximately 45 minutes each time slot. Adult participation is required. Super Saturday Fun Time 3pm Saturdays. TheatreNow. Join DOCK, the dog, and his two-legged friends as they uncover mysteries and discover artifacts (courtesy of Cape Fear Museum). Different adventure each week. Families welcome. $8/person. Visit www. theatrewilmington.com for tickets. Movie in the Park: Despicable Me 8-10pm. Leland Municipal Park. Join us in the park and watch

a free family movie under the night sky. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, a picnic and your family, but please no pets or alcohol. Smoking is also prohibited on Town Property. Concessions will be available for purchase. Summer Movies at the Lake: Jungle Book 8:30pm. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Grab the kids, blankets and beach chairs and head to the Carolina Beach Lake to enjoy a free outdoor movie on a ‘gigantic’ screen. Movie goers can purchase cotton candy, popcorn, candy, soft drinks and much more. This week’s movie is Jungle Book. You can also bring your own food and beverages (no glass or alcohol please). Movies start at dusk. Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule.

3 SUNDAY Family Fun Day 9am - 5pm. Airlie Gardens. Visit the parks and Arboretum for a full day of family fun. Contact 798-7700 or visit www.airliegardens.org for more information. Family Friendly Hike 10am. Greenfield Lake Park. As part of Clean Water Week, the Cape Fear Sierra Club presents a Family-Friendly Hike. The club leads a 4.5-mile paved hike around the lake to explore the diverse ecosystem of plants and animals (maybe even a gator sighting!) and pick up trash along the way. The standard Sierra Club liability waiver is required for all participants. Meet at the boathouse parking lot. Residents Free Day - Cape Fear Museum 1 – 5pm. Cape Fear Museum. NHC residents are admitted free to the Museum the first Sunday of every month. Call 7984350 or visit www.capefearmuseum.com for information. Boogie in the Park Concert Series: Rivermist 5-7pm. Ocean Front Park, Kure Beach. Free concert series. This week features Rivermist with their Classic Rock style. Bring your beach chair or blanket and enjoy the music! Visit www. pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule.

4 MONDAY Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Oct. 29. Wrightsville Beach. Buy fresh locally grown produce, baked goods, seafood, unique craft items and more! The Farmers’ Market is located on Seawater Lane adjacent to Wrightsville Beach Town Hall. Visit www. townofwrightsvillebeach.com for more information. Railroad Storytime 10:30am. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Hear stories and enjoy creative activities in the Children’s Hall. $5/Family. Free/ Members. Call 763-2634 for more information. Storytime at Pleasure Island 10:30am, Mondays. Pleasure Island branch Library. Join our fun and educational storytime for all preschool ages (babies to 5 years of age)! We’ll enjoy books, music, manipulatives, and other pre-literacy activities. No registration or fees required.

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5 TUESDAY WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY Storytime at the Library 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Tuesdays. Main Library. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. Storytime at Pleasure Island 10:30am, Tuesdays. Pleasure Island branch Library. Join our fun and educational storytime for all preschool ages (babies to 5 years of age)! We’ll enjoy books, music, manipulatives, and other pre-literacy activities. No registration or fees required. Art on Easels 2:30pm, Tuesdays. Northeast Library. We will have 5 double sided easels set up for children to come in and create a masterpiece. Try the theme of the day or free draw. No registration is required, so drop in, create, and then take your art home with you! Kid’s Cooking Club - Going Greek: Hummus and Pita 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. Learn new skills and explore fun seasonal recipes. Then savor the flavor of your hard work. Kids Cooking Club is sponsored by Harris Teeter. Visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly themes and call 254-3534 to pre-register. Belly Casting and Painting Consults 6:30pm, Tuesdays. Bump and Beyond. Free event. Want to check this out? It’s all the rage! Celebrate that adorable Bump, you’ll miss it one day!

6 WEDNESDAY Poplar Grove Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Wednesdays. Poplar Grove, Hampstead. Fresh produce, landscaping & bedding plants, or meet herbalists growing herbs and mixing scented salves and oils, bakers with homemade cookies and desserts, and artisans making handmade soaps, cutting boards, jewelry, and accessories for home, hearth and garden. Visit www.poplargrove.org for more information. Storytime and Music & Movement 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove & Northeast Libraries. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. S.T.E.A.M. Explorations - Bottle Diver 10am & 3:30pm, Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. STEAM programs explore Science, Technology, Engineering Arts, and Mathematics by applying them in fun, hands-on activities. Children will learn about the scientific process while measuring and

recording in mathematical terms, developing critical thinking skills in the process. Please pre-register. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information.

7 THURSDAY Storytime at the Library 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Thursdays. Myrtle Grove & Northeast Libraries. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. Messy Hands Toddler Art 10am. Main Library. Toddlers and their adults will be introduced to a variety of hands-on art experiences. The focus of this program will be on child driven art exploration. Come join us for a half hour of messy fun & make sure to wear play clothes. This program is designed for children between the ages of 2-4. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration at www. nhclibrary.org is required. Turtle Trek 10-11am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Call 341-0075 to register.

Celebrating the 15th Annual NC Blueberry Festival Farm Fresh Local Blueberries 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk • Arts & Craft vendors Food Vendors • Car Show Kids Activities & Rides •Tour de Blueberry

June 15 & 16, 2018 Friday 5 to 10pm • Saturday 9 am to 10 pm All day entertainment

www.ncblueberryfestival.com

StoryCOOKS - Goldilocks and the Three Bears: Ultimate Porridge 10am, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. A cooking club for preschoolers where we read a story and make a dish inspired by the book. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information and weekly themes. Mamas Love Mamas Support 11am. Bump and Beyond. Free event. Peer to peer sisterhood; come as you are and leave empowered. We are here together, it takes a village! Nature Navigators - Endangered Species in Wilmington 3:30pm, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. Join us in exploring the beauty of the world around us! Nature Navigators will help foster a love of nature in children of all ages. From animal tracks to scavenger hunts, come explore some North Carolinian nature with us! Ideal for ages 5 - 9. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Concert in the Park: Gump Fiction 6:30pm. Leland Municipal Park. Join us in Leland Municipal Park for our free concert series and be prepared to dance! Bring a blanket or a lawn chair, beverages, and your friends and family! Local food trucks will be on site selling food! Please remember, no smoking or e-cigarettes are allowed on Town property. Enjoy a performance by beach music group The Tams and food from T’Geaux Boays food truck.

IT’S SPRING TIME!!

Bring the whole family down to see us and try all twelve of our sweet froyo flavors! Check us out on Facebook

250 Racine Drive Suite # 12 910-523-5278

Bundles of Joy Diaper Cakes

The Perfect Gift for Expectant Moms!

BOUTIQUE Exquisite Children's Clothing Specializing in Baptism/Christening/First Communion Attire Located in the Cotton Exchange

910-399-6801 • www.littleangelboutiques.com www.wilmingtonparent.com

910-367-2921

www.bundlesofjoydiapercakes.com Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 7

Adventures in the Arts - Discovering: Picasso 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. Please pre-register. Bring your child to express their creativity through various forms of art including--but not limited to--painting, sculpture, music, theater, dance, drawing, and printing. Visit www.playwilmington. org for details. Fort Fisher Summer Concert: Massive Grass 6:30pm. Fort Fisher Recreation Center. Come out and enjoy the progressive bluegrass sounds of Massive Grass. Free concert. Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule. Downtown Sundown Concert Series: Hey Johnny Park 6:30pm. Downtown Wilmington. Opening band starts at 6:30, headliner at 8pm. Come down to the river and enjoy these weekly summer concerts! This week enjoy the Foo Fighters Tribute band Hey Johnny Park.

She gets her hair from her mom.

9 SATURDAY Riverfront Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Nov 17. Downtown Wilmington. Located in Riverfront Park on Water Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington in front of the Federal Courthouse. Curbside market featuring local farmers, producers, artists and crafters. Products include fresh fruits and berries, vegetables, plants, herbs, flowers, eggs, cheeses, meats, seafood, honey, baked goods, legumes, pickled items, jams and jellies, wine, art, crafts and more.

Her eyes from her dad. And her drugs from her grandma’s purse. 67% of people who misuse prescription drugs get them from family or friends. Prevent your children, friends and relatives from misusing your own medication by securing your meds in places they cannot access.

BE AWARE. DON’T SHARE.®

LOCK YOUR MEDS.® www.lockyourmeds.org/nc TM

Supported by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services, with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Opioid STR/Cures (Grant#1H79TI080257) and SPF-RX (Grant # 1U79SP022087).

Summer Fireworks by the Sea and Concert: Rivermist 6:30pm. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. The best place to view this weekly spectacular show is on the beach strand located in front of the Courtyard by Marriott or on the historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk, where there is music at the Gazebo stage for your enjoyment. So ‘pack up’ the family and head to the Boardwalk in Carolina Beach. The music starts at 6:30 followed by the fireworks at 9:00. Follow Facebook for weather delays, changes and updates.

8 FRIDAY - WORLD OCEANS DAY Turtle Trek 10-11am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Call 341-0075 to register.

8 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

Toddler Time - Paper Plate Butterflies 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. No registration necessary. Projects and activities for our youngest visitors (ages 4 and under) and their special grownups to work on together. Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. World Oceans Day Celebration 10am-4pm. Fort Fisher Aquarium. Guests can play and learn at education stations, enjoy a scavenger hunt, craft sea creatures, have their faces painted, and more. Teen Book Swap 2pm. Pleasure Island Library. Trade out your already-read-books for a fresh new read! Every month we’ll have a selection of Advance Reader Copies and donated books. Book content will range from middle grade to young adult. No registration is required for this free program!

Wilmington Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays. Tidal Creek. The Port City’s premier local food shopping destination. A producer only market, which means they only sell what they produce! When you purchase something from one of the vendors, you are making a difference by supporting your local food economy. Dedicated to providing an alternative grocery shopping experience where you will find food grown and sold with integrity. Visit www.thewilmingtonfarmersmarket.com for more information. Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market 8am, Saturdays. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Enjoy a stroll around the lake while picking up some local produce, herbs, plants, crafts. Make a visit to the Farmers’ Market a weekly tradition! Visit the facebook page for more information. World Oceans Day Celebration 10am-4pm. Fort Fisher Aquarium. See 05/08. Turtle Trek 10-10:30am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Call 341-0075 to register. Storytime and Activities: The Incredibles 2: Sweet Dreams, Jack-Jack 11am. Barnes & Noble. The Incredibles are back navigating the heroics of everyday life when a new villain hatches a brilliant and dangerous plot that only The Incredibles can overcome together. Activities to follow. STEM Lab Open House 1-5pm. STEM Lab, Mayfaire Town Center. Stop by The STEM Labs Open House Weekend and tour Wilmington’s only kid-centric science, technology, engineering and mathematics laboratory spaces. Families are invited to meet the team and explore handson activity stations. Enter a drawing during your visit for a free Summer Camp! Visit www.theSTEMlabs.com for more info.

10 SUNDAY STEM Lab Open House 12-4pm. STEM Lab, Mayfaire Town Center. Stop by The STEM Labs Open House Weekend and tour Wilmington’s only kid-centric science, technology, engineering and mathematics laboratory spaces. Families are invited to meet the team and explore handson activity stations. Enter a drawing during your visit for a free Summer Camp! Visit www.theSTEMlabs.com for more info. Summer Movies at the Lake: The Secret Life of Pets 8:30pm. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Grab the kids, blankets and beach chairs and head to the Carolina Beach Lake to enjoy a free outdoor movie on a ‘gigantic’ screen. Movie goers can purchase

www.wilmingtonparent.com

cotton candy, popcorn, candy, soft drinks and much more. This week’s movie is The Secret Life of Pets. You can also bring your own food and beverages (no glass or alcohol please). Movies start at dusk. Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule.

11 MONDAY Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Oct. 29. Wrightsville Beach. Buy fresh locally grown produce, baked goods, seafood, unique craft items and more! The Farmers’ Market is located on Seawater Lane adjacent to Wrightsville Beach Town Hall. Visit www.townofwrightsvillebeach.com for more information.

CHILDCARE LISTING GUIDE

World Oceans Day Celebration 10am-4pm. Fort Fisher Aquarium. See 05/08.

CHILDCARE – PRESCHOOLS

12 TUESDAY LEGO Coding 2pm. Myrtle Grove Library. Ages 7-11. Learn the Binary Alphabet to code and decode messages with Legos! Registration required and opens 4 weeks prior to program date. Register online at www. nhclibrary.org or call 798-6393. See Miss Moe for more info!

Childcare Network 8 convenient locations in Wilmington, Southport and Leland 866-521-KIDS www.childcarenetwork.com Ages 6-weeks to 12-years

Kid’s Cooking Club - Going French: Stuffed Crepes 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. Learn new skills and explore fun seasonal recipes. Then savor the flavor of your hard work. Kids Cooking Club is sponsored by Harris Teeter. Visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly themes and call 254-3534 to pre-register.

Island Montessori Children’s School 6339 Carolina Beach Road 910-707-1200 cdworshak@islandmontessorischool.com https://www.im.school/preschool

13 WEDNESDAY

The Children’s Schoolhouse Montessori 612 South College Rd. Wilmington, NC 28403 910-799-1531 www.childrensschoolhouse.org Since 1985. Preschool and North Carolina State Recognized Kindergarten Program. Spanish, Gardening for little hands. Now enrolling students ages 3-5, for 2, 3, or 5 day programs.

Poplar Grove Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Wednesdays. Poplar Grove, Hampstead. Fresh produce, landscaping & bedding plants, or meet herbalists growing herbs and mixing scented salves and oils, bakers with homemade cookies and desserts, and artisans making handmade soaps, cutting boards, jewelry, and accessories for home, hearth and garden. Visit www.poplargrove.org for more information. S.T.E.A.M. Explorations - Pool Noodle Sail Boats 10am & 3:30pm, Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. STEAM programs explore Science, Technology, Engineering Arts, and Mathematics by applying them in fun, hands-on activities. Children will learn about the scientific process while measuring and recording in mathematical terms, developing critical thinking skills in the process. Please pre-register. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Story Time by the Sea 10am, Wednesdays. Ocean Front Park. Join the Princess and her fairytale friends from Fairytales and Dreams by the Sea for stories, crafts and games. Fun activities for both boys and girls. Don’t forget your camera to get a picture with the Princess! Summer Read Aloud: The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket 2pm. Pleasure Island Library. Miss Meaghan has been tasked with sharing the unfortunate events that occurred in the lives of the Baudelaire orphans. Every month, you can pull up a cushion and listen as she reads from the first book on their lives. Afterwards, we will engage in a craft or activity, so we can momentarily forget about the dreary lives of Violet, Klaus, and Sunny. Kids ages 6-12. Registration is required for this free program. Contact Miss Meaghan at mweiner@nhcgov.com for more information.

14 THURSDAY - FLAG DAY Preschool Math and Science Program 10am. Cape Fear Museum. Play, learn, and explore with your child. Math and science concepts will be introduced through interactive story times, hands-on science experiments and exploration stations. This program is designed for children between the ages of 3-6. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required at www.nhclibrary.org. StoryCOOKS - Blueberry Mouse: Blueberry Pie 10am, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. A cooking club for preschoolers where we read a story and make a dish inspired by the book. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information and weekly themes.

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Jenkins Preschool Academy 7888 Market St. Wilmington, NC 28411 910-367-7210 www.jpawilmington.com Half day programs 9am-12pm, 2 or 3 day classes for 2-3 yr. olds, 5-day programs for 4 y.o. And PreK

Gym & Learn Preschool Program Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Ages 3-5, boys & girls, 9am-1pm. A good mix of structure, instruction, and free play including developmentally appropriate academics, gymnastics class, arts & crafts, & socialization. Ongoing registration~choose 2-5 days per week! Pax Natura Academy 4202 Wilshire Blvd. Wilmington, NC 910-791-2080 www.childcarenetwork.net/159 Early Foundations Infant & Toddler Programs. Preschool for 2 & 3 yo. Kindergarten Prep for 4 & 5 yo. After School Program. St. Mary Catholic School Early Childhood Center 217 S. 4th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 910-762-5491, x140 linns@thestmaryparish.org www.thestmaryschool.org Winter Park Presbyterian Preschool 4501 Wrightsville Avenue Wilmington, NC 28403 910-791-5893 preschool.wppc@gmail.com www.wppc-preschool.org

DROP IN CHILDCARE Porter’s Neck Play House 7946 Market Street #200 Wilmington, NC 28411 910-319-7879 • www.PNPlayhouse.com The Play House is a drop in play center that cares for children 12 months and older. Daily play involves art, games, pretend play, dancing, relay races, puzzles and story time. No matter what time of day you stop in your child will have a great time! Promise. After school care available with transportation. Low hourly rates and affordable monthly packages available. Open at 7:45 M-F

PARENTS NIGHT OUT Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Friday & Saturday nights, 6-10pm, ages 3-10. Drop your children off for supervised free play in our 15,000 sq. foot gymnastics facility. Run, jump, & flip with your friends all night long! Parents can relax at home, or get things done while the kids have fun!!

The Little Gym of Wilmington 132 Racine Drive, Unit 1 910-799-3771/3770 tlgwilmingtonnc@thelittlegym.com www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com When school’s out or you are looking for a safe, fun and nurturing environment for your child in Wilmington, we’ve got your back! The Little Gym offers classes as well as weekend Parents’ Survival Nights. We combine physical activity, gymnastics, games, and arts & crafts. Call us for fun!

Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 9

Nature Navigators - Thunderstorms 3:30pm, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. Join us in exploring the beauty of the world around us! Nature Navigators will help foster a love of nature in children of all ages. From animal tracks to scavenger hunts, come explore some North Carolinian nature with us! Ideal for ages 5 - 9. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information.

cal food shopping destination. A producer only market, which means they only sell what they produce! When you purchase something from one of the vendors, you are making a difference by supporting your local food economy. Dedicated to providing an alternative grocery shopping experience where you will find food grown and sold with integrity. Visit www.thewilmingtonfarmersmarket.com for more information.

Up and Active 6:30pm, Thursdays. Ocean Front Park. Move your body - move your mind. Join Lynne and the Wave for an hour of music, games, and fun for everyone. Face painting provided by P3 Planning.

Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market 8am, Saturdays. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Enjoy a stroll around the lake while picking up some local produce, herbs, plants, crafts. Make a visit to the Farmers’ Market a weekly tradition! Visit the facebook page for more information.

WECT Sounds of Summer Concert Series: Southern Trouble 6:30pm. Wrightsville Beach Park. Bring a picnic, lawn chairs, and blankets for this weekly free concert. Coolers are welcome, but no alcohol is allowed. This week enjoy the Country Rock sounds of Southern Trouble.

Kimberly Ramon

15 FRIDAY NC Blueberry Festival Historic Downtown Burgaw, all day. Blueberries, entertainment, car show, street fair, recipe contest, barbeque cook-off, 5K run, special exhibits, and a variety of other events. Toddler Time - Father’s Day Craft 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. No registration necessary. Projects and activities for our youngest visitors (ages 4 and under) and their special grownups to work on together. Call 2543534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. PreK Music Play 3pm. Northeast Library. Have a playdate with other library families and Miss Shannon this summer! Play and music are important components of early literacy, so join us for finger plays, songs, scarves and more! No registration required. Call 798-6379 with questions. Adventures in the Arts - Discovering: Michelangelo 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. Please pre-register. Bring your child to express their creativity through various forms of art including--but not limited to--painting, sculpture, music, theater, dance, drawing, and printing. Visit www.playwilmington. org for details.

Angela Kelly

Airlie Gardens Summer Concert Series: Massive Grass 6-8pm. Airlie Gardens. Join us for some outdoor Bluegrass music by Massive Grass. Seating for concerts is open-lawn, and all outdoors lawn chairs are permitted. Front Street Brewery & Noni Baca Winery will be on-site selling food & beverage items, or bring your own food and enjoy a picnic on the lawn! Open to the public, but tickets must be purchased in advance at www. airliegardens.org. Summer Fireworks by the Sea and Concert: Spank 6:30pm. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. The best place to view this weekly spectacular show is on the beach strand located in front of the Courtyard by Marriott or on the historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk, where there is music at the Gazebo stage for your enjoyment. So ‘pack up’ the family and head to the Boardwalk in Carolina Beach. The music starts at 6:30 followed by the fireworks at 9:00. Follow Facebook for weather delays, changes and updates. Downtown Sundown Concert Series: Tuesday’s Gone 6:30pm. Downtown Wilmington. Opening band starts at 6:30, headliner at 8pm. Come down to the river and enjoy these weekly summer concerts! This week enjoy the Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute band Tuesday’s Gone.

16 SATURDAY NC Blueberry Festival. See 6/15

librarianjamie

10 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

Heroes and Heroines 9am-12pm. Children’s Museum. Do you think your child has what it takes to become a real superhero? There is only one way to find out! Join us to hone in on your child’s superhero powers through our specially designed, hero themed games and activities. Don’t forget to come dressed in your best superhero costume! Summer Reading Kick-Off 10am-12pm. Main Library. Don’t miss the Broccoli Brothers Circus concert in Story Park! Other activities include: rockstar selfies, temporary tattoos, paint kindness rocks, get your summer reading bag, and of course read books! There will be a special appearance by Sharky from the Wilmington Sharks! This event is free, open to children of all ages, and no registration is required. Call 798-6303 if you have questions. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be moved inside. Stranger Things Escape Room 10am & 1:30pm. Teens Only! Come to the Northeast Library for a special program- Stranger Things Escape Room. Can you rescue your missing friend from the Upside Down before it’s too late? This program is free and open to the public, but you must register in advance at www.nhclibrary.org. Please note: Please arrive 5-10 minutes early so that we can begin on time. Registrants who arrive after the escape room session has begun may not be able to join. This session is for teens only. Adults may sign up in the adult programs. Father’s Day Storytime: My Daddy: A Book of Love and Family 11am. Barnes & Noble. Join us for a special Father’s Day Storytime with a book celebrating all that is great about dads. Activities to follow. Birth Circle 1pm. Bump and Beyond. Listen and share your story we are here to build your village, facilitated by our local Cape Fear Area Doulas. Movie in the Park: Leap 8-10pm. Leland Municipal Park. Join us in the park and watch a free family movie under the night sky. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, a picnic and your family, but please no pets or alcohol. Smoking is also prohibited on Town Property. Concessions will be available for purchase.

17 SUNDAY - FATHER’S DAY Mamas Love Mamas Support 11am. Bump and Beyond. Free event. Peer to peer sisterhood; come as you are and leave empowered. We are here together, it takes a village! Boogie in the Park Concert Series: L Shaped Lot 5-7pm. Ocean Front Park, Kure Beach. Free concert series. This week features L Shaped Lot with their Americana style. Bring your beach chair or blanket and enjoy the music! Visit www. pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule. Summer Movies at the Lake: Peter Rabbit 8:30pm. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Grab the kids, blankets and beach chairs and head to the Carolina Beach Lake to enjoy a free outdoor movie on a ‘gigantic’ screen. Movie goers can purchase cotton candy, popcorn, candy, soft drinks and much more. This week’s movie is Peter Rabbit. You can also bring your own food and beverages (no glass or alcohol please). Movies start at dusk. Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule.

18 MONDAY Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Oct. 29. Wrightsville Beach. Buy

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fresh locally grown produce, baked goods, seafood, unique craft items and more! The Farmers’ Market is located on Seawater Lane adjacent to Wrightsville Beach Town Hall. Visit www. townofwrightsvillebeach.com for more information. Railroad Storytime 10:30am. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Hear stories and enjoy creative activities in the Children’s Hall. $5/Family. Free/ Members. Call 763-2634 for more information. PreK Art Time 11am. Pleasure Island Library. Join us every month as we create, learn, and play! Preschool children ages 2-4 welcome! Please wear clothes that can get messy! Registration is required for this free program. For more information contact Miss Meaghan mweiner@nhcgov.com.

Sushi Shaped Candles and Anime Club 5:30pm. Northeast Library. This program is open to teen participants only. Have you ever wanted to try your hand at candle-making? Come join us as we make candles shaped like cute rolls of sushi! Afterwards, feel free to stick around for our Teen Anime and Manga Club at 6:30pm, and join fellow anime and manga enthusiasts to watch streaming anime shows (no commercials!), share your manga drawing skills, and check out the library’s teen manga collection! The club is open to all high school-aged patrons. No library card or event registration required.

20 WEDNESDAY

Record Club for Teens 12pm. Northeast Library. Come listen and discuss records from yesterday and today. There will be snacks. This program is for youth aged 13-18. Registration helps us to know the correct amount of tasty snacks to have, so please register.

Free Ballet Master Class 5-7pm. Wilmington School of Ballet. Free master class with ballet starts Walter Angelini and Ines Albertini. For intermediate to advanced ballet students. Pre-registration is required by calling 794-9590. See www.wilmingtonschoolofballet.com for more information.

Story Time by the Sea 10am, Wednesdays. Ocean Front Park. Join the Princess and her fairytale friends from Fairytales and Dreams by the Sea for stories, crafts and games. Fun activities for both boys and girls. Don’t forget your camera to get a picture with the Princess!

19 TUESDAY

S.T.E.A.M. Explorations - Color Changing Slime 10am & 3:30pm, Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. STEAM programs explore Science, Technology, Engineering Arts, and Mathematics by applying them in fun, hands-on activities. Children will learn about the scientific process while measuring and recording in mathematical terms, developing critical thinking skills in the process. Please pre-register. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information.

Baby Obstacle Course 9:30am Northeast Library. Come play on our obstacle materials! Traverse through tunnels, climb over soft pillars and meet new friends! Kid’s Cooking Club - Going Vietnamese: Summer Rolls & Peanut Dipping Sauce 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. Learn new skills and explore fun seasonal recipes. Then savor the flavor of your hard work. Kids Cooking Club is sponsored by Harris Teeter. Visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly themes and call 254-3534 to pre-register.

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Hello Cello! With Miss Michelle 2pm. Pleasure Island Library. Miss Michelle will come in and introduce us to her cello and how she plays. We’ll listen to some music and do a related craft. Kids ages 4-10. No registration required

Fort Fisher Aquarium Presents: Nature Music - Frogs and Toads 2pm. Northeast Library. Come learn about the different sounds Frogs and Toads make!

21 THURSDAY - SUMMER SOLSTICE Messy Hands Toddler Art 10am. Main Library. Toddlers and their adults will be introduced to a variety of hands-on art experiences. The focus of this program will be on child driven art exploration. Come join us for a half hour of messy fun & make sure to wear play clothes. This program is designed for children between the ages of 2-4. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration at www. nhclibrary.org is required. A Pollinator’s Journey 10--11am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Call 341-0075 to register. StoryCOOKS - Blueberries for Sal: Blueberry Parfait 10am, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. A cooking club for preschoolers where we read a story and make a dish inspired by the book. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information and weekly themes. Seahawk Family Arts Matinee 10:30am. Kenan Auditorium. Featuring shadow puppet theater with Gina Gambony. Admission $5. Hand Clapping Games 3pm. Northeast Library. Come and play hand-clapping games this summer with Miss Shannon! This fun family program will bring back fond playground memories for adults and teach kids fine-motor and memory skills. Ages 6 & up. No registration required. Call 798-6379 with questions.

Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 11

Nature Navigators - Lima Bean Bag 3:30pm, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. Join us in exploring the beauty of the world around us! Nature Navigators will help foster a love of nature in children of all ages. From animal tracks to scavenger hunts, come explore some North Carolinian nature with us! Ideal for ages 5 - 9. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Up and Active 6:30pm, Thursdays. Ocean Front Park. Move your body - move your mind. Join Lynne and the Wave for an hour of music, games, and fun for everyone. Face painting provided by P3 Planning. Summer Fireworks by the Sea and Concert: Billy Walton 6:30pm. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. The best place to view this weekly spectacular show is on the beach strand located in front of the Courtyard by Marriott or on the historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk, where there is music at the Gazebo stage for your enjoyment. So ‘pack up’ the family and head to the Boardwalk in Carolina Beach. The music starts at 6:30 followed by the fireworks at 9:00. Follow Facebook for weather delays, changes and updates. WECT Sounds of Summer Concert Series: Striking Copper 6:30pm. Wrightsville Beach Park. Bring a picnic, lawn chairs, and blankets for this weekly free concert. Coolers are welcome, but no alcohol is allowed. This week enjoy the Folk Rock sounds of Striking Copper.

22 FRIDAY Toddler Time - Finger Painting 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. No registration necessary. Projects and activities for our youngest visitors (ages 4 and under) and their special grownups to work on together. Call 2543534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. A Pollinator’s Journey 10-11am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Call 341-0075 to register. Family Movies at Main: Finding Dory 2pm. Main Library. Join us for Family Movies every Friday in the Summer! Today’s movie is “Finding Dory,” rated PG. Movies are shown in the New Hanover Room on the 3rd floor of the Main Library. Adults must stay with their children. Outside snacks are allowed. No registration required. Teen Sci-Fi and Fantasy Club 2pm. Pleasure Island Library. Join us every month as we delve into the sci-fi and fantasy genres! This month: Cubee Crafts and Make a 3D paper collectible! Adventures in the Arts - Discovering Van Gogh 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. Please pre-register. Bring your child to express their creativity through various forms of art including--but not limited to--painting, sculpture, music, theater, dance, drawing, and printing. Visit www.playwilmington.org for details. 4th Friday Gallery Night 6pm. Downtown Wilmington. The Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County presents 4th Friday Gallery Night, a free monthly self-guided tour of galleries, studios and art spaces featuring exhibitions of various artistic genres including oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, photography, glass, metals, wood, ceramics, mixed media and more. 4th Fridays also include opening receptions, artist discussions, demonstrations, live music, wine, food and other traditional and nontraditional art-related activities. Downtown Sundown Concert Series: The Core 6:30pm. Downtown Wilmington. Opening band starts at 6:30, headliner at 8pm. Come down to the river and enjoy these weekly summer concerts! This week enjoy the Eric Clapton Tribute band The Core. Fort Fisher Summer Concert: Luxuriant Sedans 6:30pm. Fort Fisher Recreation Center. Come out and enjoy the Blues and Rock sounds of Massive Grass. Free concert. Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule.

12 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

23 SATURDAY Riverfront Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Nov 17. Downtown Wilmington. Located in Riverfront Park on Water Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington in front of the Federal Courthouse. Curbside market featuring local farmers, producers, artists and crafters. Products include fresh fruits and berries, vegetables, plants, herbs, flowers, eggs, cheeses, meats, seafood, honey, baked goods, legumes, pickled items, jams and jellies, wine, art, crafts and more. Wilmington Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays. Tidal Creek. The Port City’s premier local food shopping destination. A producer only market, which means they only sell what they produce! When you purchase something from one of the vendors, you are making a difference by supporting your local food economy. Dedicated to providing an alternative grocery shopping experience where you will find food grown and sold with integrity. Visit www.thewilmingtonfarmersmarket.com for more information. Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market 8am, Saturdays. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Enjoy a stroll around the lake while picking up some local produce, herbs, plants, crafts. Make a visit to the Farmers’ Market a weekly tradition! Visit the facebook page for more information. Improv Workshop with Daredevil Improv 10am. Myrtle Grove Library. This introductory class covers the building blocks of improvising using classic and modern theater games. Participants will focus on working together as a group, support and having fun! Ages 10 & up. Space is limited. Registration required at www.nhclibrary.org. A Pollinator’s Journey 10-10:30am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Call 341-0075 to register. Storytime and Activities: Jurassic Park Little Golden Book 11am. Barnes & Noble. Introduce little ones to the world of Jurassic Park. This action-packed (and age-appropriate) title is great for dinosaur lovers, both new and old. Activities to follow. Expecting Mamas Circle 12pm. Bump and Beyond. Free event. Meet with others ladies pregnant in the Port City, ask questions in a safe nonjudgmental space while getting evidenced based information, facilitated by our local Cape Fear Area Doulas.

24 SUNDAY Summer Movies at the Lake: Nine Lives 8:30pm. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Grab the kids, blankets and beach chairs and head to the Carolina Beach Lake to enjoy a free outdoor movie on a ‘gigantic’ screen. Movie goers can purchase cotton candy, popcorn, candy, soft drinks and much more. This week’s movie is Nine Lives. You can also bring your own food and beverages (no glass or alcohol please). Movies start at dusk. Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule.

25 MONDAY Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Oct. 29. Wrightsville Beach. Buy fresh locally grown produce, baked goods, seafood, unique craft items and more! The Farmers’ Market is located on Seawater Lane adjacent to Wrightsville Beach Town Hall. Visit www. townofwrightsvillebeach.com for more information. Mock the Movie 12pm. Northeast Library. Come watch bad movies and make fun of them. This is your chance to make jokes on the fly and talk during a movie. This program is for youth aged thirTEEN (13)- eighTEEN (18) and snacks will be provided. Registration is not required but preferred so we know the right amount of snacks to have available.

26 TUESDAY Kid’s Cooking Club - Going Indian: Mango Lassi 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. Learn new skills

and explore fun seasonal recipes. Then savor the flavor of your hard work. Kids Cooking Club is sponsored by Harris Teeter. Visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly themes and call 254-3534 to pre-register.

27 WEDNESDAY Poplar Grove Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Wednesdays. Poplar Grove, Hampstead. Fresh produce, landscaping & bedding plants, or meet herbalists growing herbs and mixing scented salves and oils, bakers with homemade cookies and desserts, and artisans making handmade soaps, cutting boards, jewelry, and accessories for home, hearth and garden. Visit www.poplargrove.org for more information. Story Time by the Sea 10am, Wednesdays. Ocean Front Park. Join the Princess and her fairytale friends from Fairytales and Dreams by the Sea for stories, crafts and games. Fun activities for both boys and girls. Don’t forget your camera to get a picture with the Princess! S.T.E.A.M. Explorations - Balloon Car Races 10am & 3:30pm, Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. STEAM programs explore Science, Technology, Engineering Arts, and Mathematics by applying them in fun, hands-on activities. Children will learn about the scientific process while measuring and recording in mathematical terms, developing critical thinking skills in the process. Please pre-register. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Carolina Beach State Park Visit: Animal Communication! 2pm. Pleasure Island Library. Join us for a special presentation from the CB State Park rangers! Learn about animal sounds and how they communicate! Ages 4-10 welcome! Registration is required for this free program at www.nhclibrary.org. Slime Time 2pm. Northeast Library. Come mix ingredients and make SLIME! That’s right if you are new to the SLIME game or an expert SLIME maker, you are welcome to come and have fun making more SLIME. Registration Required at www.nhclibrary.org.

28 THURSDAY StoryCOOKS - Wemberly’s Ice Cream Star: Ice Cream Soup 10am, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. A cooking club for preschoolers where we read a story and make a dish inspired by the book. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information and weekly themes. Seahawk Family Arts Matinee 10:30am. Kenan Auditorium. Featuring Flim Flam Alakazam with No Sleeves Magic. Admission $5. Nature Navigators - Nature Scavenger Hunt 3:30pm, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. Join us in exploring the beauty of the world around us! Nature Navigators will help foster a love of nature in children of all ages. From animal tracks to scavenger hunts, come explore some North Carolinian nature with us! Ideal for ages 5 - 9. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Up and Active 6:30pm, Thursdays. Ocean Front Park. Move your body move your mind. Join Lynne and the Wave for an hour of music, games, and fun for everyone. Face painting provided by P3 Planning. Summer Fireworks by the Sea and Concert: Feebs 6:30pm. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. The best place to view this weekly spectacular show is on the beach strand located in front of the Courtyard by Marriott or on the historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk, where there is music at the Gazebo stage for your enjoyment. So ‘pack up’ the family and head to the Boardwalk in Carolina Beach. The music starts at 6:30 followed by the fireworks at 9:00. Follow Facebook for weather delays, changes and updates. WECT Sounds of Summer Concert Series: Machine Gun 6:30pm. Wrightsville Beach Park. Bring a picnic, lawn chairs, and blankets for this weekly free concert. Coolers are welcome, but no alcohol is allowed. This week enjoy the Rock sounds of Machine Gun.

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29 FRIDAY Toddler Time - Shaving Cream Fireworks 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. No registration necessary. Projects and activities for our youngest visitors (ages 4 and under) and their special grownups to work on together. Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Family Movies at Main: Minions 2pm. Main Library. Join us for Family Movies every Friday in the Summer! Today’s movie is “Minions,” rated PG. Movies are shown in the New Hanover Room on the 3rd floor of the Main Library. Adults must stay with their children. Outside snacks are allowed. No registration required. PreK Music Play 3pm. Northeast Library. Have a playdate with other library families and Miss Shannon this summer! Play and music are important components of early literacy, so join us for finger plays, songs, scarves and more! No registration required. Call 798-6379 with questions. Adventures in the Arts - Discovering: Henri Matisse 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. Please pre-register. Bring your child to express their creativity through various forms of art including--but not limited to--painting, sculpture, music, theater, dance, drawing, and printing. Visit www.playwilmington. org for details. Downtown Sundown Concert Series: 20 Ride 6:30pm. Downtown Wilmington. Opening band starts at 6:30, headliner at 8pm. Come down to the river and enjoy these weekly summer concerts! This week enjoy the Zac Brown Tribute band 20 Ride.

30 SATURDAY Riverfront Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Nov 17. Downtown Wilmington. Located in Riverfront Park on Water Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington in front of the Federal Courthouse. Curbside market featuring local farmers, producers, artists and crafters. Products include fresh fruits and berries, vegetables, plants, herbs, flowers, eggs, cheeses, meats, seafood, honey, baked goods, legumes, pickled items, jams and jellies, wine, art, crafts and more.

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Wilmington Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays. Tidal Creek. The Port City’s premier local food shopping destination. A producer only market, which means they only sell what they produce! When you purchase something from one of the vendors, you are making a difference by supporting your local food economy. Dedicated to providing an alternative grocery shopping experience where you will find food grown and sold with integrity. Visit www.thewilmingtonfarmersmarket.com for more information. Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market 8am, Saturdays. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Enjoy a stroll around the lake while picking up some local produce, herbs, plants, crafts. Make a visit to the Farmers’ Market a weekly tradition! Visit the facebook page for more information. Storytime and Activities: Pete the Kitty and the Groovy Playdate 11am. Barnes & Noble. Before he was the beloved Pete the Cat, he was Pete the Kitty! Join Pete on a cat-tastic playdate as he learns a lesson about sharing with his friend, Grumpy Toad. Activities to follow. Action Figure Terrariums 1pm. Northeast Library. Create an ecologically-correct terrarium to house an action figure of your choice. Register at www.nhclibrary.org.

To submit events to the calendar, please email calendar.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com. Deadline for submissions to the July issue is June 9, 2018. www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 13

JUNE 10th WILSON CENTER 2:00 pm SPECIAL:

Buy one adult ticket and get a child ticket FREE CODE: childfree

o children, gardening is a bit like magic. One simply puts seeds, those little packages of mystery, into soil and after waiting for a loooong time, as much as two weeks; little plants peek up into the world. You can capture some of that mystery and magic with these four mini-gardening projects:

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Find more resources at

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EVERY TASTE 14 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

Gardening Mini-Projects to Do with Your Kids

Sunflower Houses Sunflowers are magnificent things to plant because they have a short germination time, as little as seven days, and they grow spectacularly tall. Children will love planting their sunflower home and then watching it grow inch by inch over the coming months. You could even do a little mapping and graphing as the home is planned. And then, when the magic is done, the kids can play in the house all day and sleep out in their sleeping bags at night. www.greeneducationfoundation.org How to Build a Sunflower House.

Gourds on a Fence Planting a row of gourds along a fenceline is a great way to enjoy the growth of these beautiful and varied plants. Kids love their beautiful colors and shapes. Gourds need to grow and mature until all the greenery has dried up. Then, when the gourds are thoroughly dry, you can use them for decoration, for rhythm instruments, or hollow them out to make homegrown birdhouses. www.foothillsfarm.com Ginnyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gourds.

Succulents in Clam Shells Succulents are those interesting plants that retain water in their fat leaves and come in all shapes and sizes. They are the hens and chicks, the sedums and the sempervivums that look like green roses. These plants, especially when grouped together make truly lovely arrangements. The fun part is they can grow in a minimum of soil and are perfect for a kid project. Take a large shell (or other interesting container), and drill several small holes in the bottom for drainage. Then place a layer of wet sphagnum moss in the bottom. Top with potting soil and then add several succulent plants close together. These make nice gifts or just place them in a spot where you and your children can enjoy them throughout the year. www.simplysucculents.com. You can spark your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest in the great out of doors with these and similar gardening projects. For more fun projects to do together see www.kidsgardening.org. v Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a freelance writer specializing in education, parenting and family life articles. She is the author of Homegrown Readers: Simple Ways to Help Your Child Learn to Read available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon.

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DIY Ideas for a Fun & Free Father’s Day

ather’s Day is the perfect time to tell your husband just how much he means to you. It’s the one day out of the year that is just for dad and with the right kind of planning – can be a day filled with memories to last a lifetime.

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If money is an issue – no worries. These simple tips won’t cost you a penny and the best part about them? They’re 100% homegrown and super easy. Here’s to a stress-free, money-free and child-friendly Father’s Day.

• Paperweight – Have your child collect pebbles the next time you’re out for a walk. Make this simple dough (see sidebar) and position pebbles to spell out ‘Dad Rocks’. • Text a Picture – Does dad have to work on his special day? No problem. Take a photo of your kids holding a sign that has their artwork on it. Send it to him in a text to let him know that you’re thinking of him.

• Things I love About You – Make a list or better yet, write a love note to your husband that tells him exactly why you love him. Is it the way he tucks your son in at night? Or is it because he and your daughter look just alike? Sometimes the littlest reminders can mean the most to your partner in crime.

• Love Notes – Grab the post-its and write a bunch of sweet things to stick on surfaces around the house where you know your husband will be. Does he shave every morning? Stick one to the bathroom mirror that says, “You’re the best father ever.” Does he always put the same pair of slippers on? Stick a note inside that says, “I couldn’t imagine my life without you.” • Jam Out – Have your kids gather all of their instruments from around the house and work on a little jam session. Once you’ve got a beat down (or something close to it) call dad in the room and tell him you have a special song that you and the kids would like to play for him. This one is sure to get some good laughs!

• Clean the Car – If dad is on the go as much everyone else on the planet, he probably has a car that could use a little TLC. Grab the kids and make it a family affair. Let your son vacuum the car mats and let your daughter wipe down the windows. If you have a child that is too young to really ‘help,’ let her sit in the front seat (with the keys out) and let her pretend to ‘drive the wheel.’ Your kids will get a kick out of doing big kid things and your husband will enjoy his clean ride.

• Scavenger Hunt – Kids LOVE to do scavenger hunts. Write out little notes about where to find this or that and have your kids help you hide them. Finding them with dadwill be almost as much fun as seeing his face when he finds a surprise at the last clue; a coupon for his favorite homemade dinner. Don’t forget to enjoy the most important part of Father’s Day; dad! Sometimes, the simplest gestures and most thoughtful gifts are actually the ones that cost nothing at all. Keep this list for this Father’s Day and the ones to come. Tailor it to your life and add ideas throughout the year. v

NEW PARTY RENTALS IN TOWN NOW AVAILABLE

25 Van Campen Blvd Suite 103 Wilmington, NC 28403 910-769-2090 • info@jazzyspartyrentals.com We offer Inflatables, Tents, Tables & Chairs plus unique party decorations

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Meagan Ruffing is a parenting journalist, author and speaker. She loves finding new and creative ways to make each Father’s Day better than the last. Visit her at www.meaganruffing.com and sign up for her free monthly newsletter.

Paperweight Recipe

Mix first three ingredients together in bowl. Roll into a ball and then flatten out about ½ inch thick. Place pebbles in dough to spell out ‘Dad Rocks’ pressing firmly but not too hard. Bake at 250 degrees for 2-2 ½ hours. Let cool on cookie sheet.

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¼ cup salt ½ cup flour ¼ cup water Bowl Cookie sheet Tiny rocks or pebbles

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Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 15

www.coastalathletics.net

Summer Camps- $175/week or $40.00 daily $20.00 Extended Stay ( per day) • Includes a snack and drink for each child on a daily basis •T-shirt provided to each child that attends a full week of camp

SPECIAL SECTION: Summer Camp Guide

Youth Acting Summer Camp Actor’s Arsenal

YOUTH ACTING SUMMER CAMP Mon. June 25th - Fri. June 29th. 9am-12pm. We will focus on: On-Camera Audition Technique, Cold Reading, About the Industry, The Casting Process, Headshots/Resumes, and much more.... Spots are limited!

(818) 939-4825 info@actorsarsenal.com 6336 Oleander Drive. Ste 5

www.actorsarsenal.com

6336 Oleander Dr. Ste. 5, Wilmington, 28403 818-939-4825 info@actorsarsenal.com Session Dates: Monday, June 25th through Friday, June 29th - 9:00am-12:00pm Transportation provided: none Type of Camp: Youth Acting camp Categories for Camp: Acting, Arts/Entertainment, creative, performance Description: Actor’s Arsenal 5th annual summer camp is the week of June 25th through 29th, 9:00am-12:00pm each day. We will be working with scripted material from Film & TV, on-camera audition technique, cold reading, improv, discussing headshots/resumes, agents and MORE! Spots are limited, contact us today to enroll!

Wilmington Boys Choir

16 N 16th St, Wilmington, NC 28401 910-762-4578 Ronnie Wise, Music Director www.wilmingtonboyschoir.org Ages: ages 7 thru voice chance Session dates: July 9-12, 2017 Transportation provided: No Type of camp: Half-Day Categories for camps: Music Description:FREE to participate! Open to boys age 7 thru voice change. Learn choral music. Participate in Voice Class. Play music games, have fun at the beach!

Carolina Gymnastics Academy

3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Ages: 3-11 for Morning Camp, and 5-11 for the All Day Camp, Boys & Girls Session dates: June 11th - August 17th Transportation provided: No Type of camp: Full Day 8:00am-6pm & Half Day 9:00am-1pm Categories for camps: Sports & Free Play, Adventure Camp Description: Campers stay busy and active in our 15,000 sq. foot Gym, Outdoor Recreation Area, and Afterschool Building. Gymnastics Circuits, Bouncy houses, Outside water play, gymnastics free play, trampolines, and in/outside active play. Field trips to pool for All Day Camps. Carolina Ninja Warrior Contests every Monday for All Day Campers. New Astro Turf play surface with lots of new playground equipment! Campers bring lunch and 2 snacks from home. Early drop off and aftercare available for Morning Summer Campers @ $8/hr.

Childcare Network Adventure Summer Camp

Wilmington, Leland, and Southport 866-521-KIDS www.childcarenetwork.net Ages: 1st grade to 12 years Session dates: Full Summer Transportation provided: No Type of camp: Summer, Full Day

16 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

Categories for camps: arts, adventure, science, sports and/ or academics Description: Full day summer camp. 6:30am to 6:00pm, field trips and daily activities, fun and educational weekly themes. Food is included.

Coastal Athletics Summer Camps

Camp Director: Fletcher Bates Indoor/outdoor facility, Instructors with Professional/ Collegiate playing experience 2049 Corporate Drive South, Wilmington NC 28405 910-452-5838 www.coastalathletics.net Ages: Primarily ages 6-12, Ranging from 6-16 - Each camp week targets a different age group Week 1: June 18-22: Baseball Ages 6-9 and Lacrosse (beginners) Ages 6-9, Week 2: June 25-29 Baseball Ages 8-12 and Lacrosse Ages 8-12, Week 3: July 4th- (Off), Week 4: July 9-13 Baseball Ages 8-12 and Softball Ages 8-12, Week 5: July 16-20 Baseball and Lacrosse Ages 6-9, Week 6: July 23-27 Baseball and Lacrosse Ages 8-12, Week 7: July 30-August 3, Baseball and Lacrosse Ages 8-12, Week 8: August 6-10 Baseball and Lacrosse Ages 6-9, Week 9: August 13-17 Baseball and Softball Ages 8-12, Week 10: August 20-24 Baseball Ages 6-9 Extended Stay Option - Time: 8am-12:00pm 12:00pm-4:00pm Cost: $175/week or $40 daily, $20 Extended Stay (per day) Includes a snack and drink for each child on a daily basis. T-shirt for each child who attends a full week of camp. (Children signed up for extended stay must bring a lunch.) Transportation provided- No Type of Camp- Athletic camp Categories for Camp- Sports, Baseball, Softball, Lacrosse, Multi-Sport Description- Coastal Athletics offers a fun summer camp experience for your athlete! All instructors have former collegiate or professional experience and have a passion for teaching the game to young players. Each week offers different age and sport options for your child to participate in. The extended stay option includes additional games and multi-sport activities.

Jenkins Preschool Academy

7888 Market Street Wilmington NC 28411 Contact: Alethea Jenkins 910-367-0287 • www.jpawilmington.com momofktj@aol.com Weeklong camps for ages 3-5; 9am-1pm Call for more information or to enroll July 16-20: Dinosaur Dig July 30-Aug 3: Under the Sea Aug 6-10: Transportation Station Fee: $150 ( $30 deposit/ $120 due first day of camp) *subject to min of 7 campers enrolled one week prior.

The Little Gym of Wilmington 132 Racine Drive, Unit 1 910-799-3771 www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com Ages: 3-12 years

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Session dates: Spring Break; June - August (Summer) Transportation provided: No Type of camp: Summer, Full and Half-Day Categories for camps: Sports/ Cheerleading/Gymnastics/ Dance/Karate Description: The Little Gym camp magic is in the air! Join us this spring break and summer for half and full day options filled with gymnastics, sports, dance, legos, karate, painting, other fun themes and imaginative play! Anytime camps keep it flexible for you. Sign up for as little as one or two days or an entire week! Camps are for children ages 3-12 years old.

Mermaid Camps

NC Aquarium at Ft. Fisher Summer Camps

900 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach, NC 28449 910-772-0542 ncaff.registrar@ncaquariums.com www.ncaquariums.com Aquarium summer camps provide fun and safe learning opportunities with knowledgeable and competent leadership. Camps run simultaneously for ages 5-6, 7-8, and 9-11. Ages 5-6, known as Aquanauts, become immersed in weekly topics through animal interaction, play, storytelling, crafts, and hands on outdoor activities. Ages 7-8, Marine Detectives, use their investigative skills during animal programs, outdoor excursions, and interactive games to better understand nature. Ages 9-11, Ocean Explorers, participate with staff in experiences outdoors, and behind the scenes at the Aquarium, to discover each weekly topic. Ages12-14, Coastal Crusaders, venture farther to explore different coastal environments and learn about animal collection. These campers also interact more directly with staff behind the scenes to assist with animal care. Ages15-16, Green Teens, investigate our connection with nature, engage in conservation projects to help protect our planet, and explore careers in marine science. Camp Fees: $250.00 for ages 5-11, $300.00 for ages 12-14, $300.00 for ages 15-16

MAYFAIRE TOWN CENTER www.theSTEMlabs.com 910-839-8019 Workshops Summer Camps After-School Care Preschool Labs Home-School STEM Tutoring Leadership Skills Birthday Parties Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Night Out

Play House Camp

7946 Market Street #200 Wilmington, NC 28411 910-319-7879 pnplayhouse@gmail.com www.PNPlayhouse.com Transportation: not provided Type of camp: Week long camps, 10am -1pm Categories: Adventure, cooking and travel June 18-22 Play House Cooking Camp for ages 3-5 June 25-29 Play House Cooking Camp for ages 6-10 Cooking Camp with expert help from Creative Cuisine Catering. We will Visit a farm, a real commercial kitchen, buy our own ingredients and then make a meal from scratch to take home on Friday that will feed 4-5 people. July 9-13, Our Mysterious World for ages 3-7 Pirates! Royalty! The Ocean! The Stars! Meat eating plants! Camps are M-F from 10 am to 1pm. Camp cost $150, or daily rate $40, if space allows. Call 910-319-7879 for more information.

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Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 17

SPECIAL SECTION: Summer Camp Guide

Public Beach Access #36, Wrightsville Beach, NC 203-494-7684 www.MermaidSurfCo.com Sessions: 1. Little Mermaid Camp (ages 7-9), MondayFriday 8:30-11:30 AM, July 9th-13th, July 23rd-27th, August 6th-10th 2. Mermaid Surf Camp (ages 10-14), Monday-Friday 8:3011:30 AM, July 16th-20th, July 30th- August 3rd, August 13th-17th Transportation Provided: No Categories: Ocean Safety, Surfing, Beach Yoga, Arts & Crafts, Eco-education, Female Empowerment Description: Little Mermaid Camps will focus on empowering girls ages 7-9. Mermaid Surf Camps will focus on empowering girls ages 10-14. Our Mermaid Pod will learn about ocean safety, body surfing, surfing, beach yoga, ecoeducation, beach crafts, and more! Our goal is to educate and empower young females to love themselves, each other, and the ocean.

ENROLL ONLINE TODAY!

The STEM Labs Summer Camps

SPECIAL SECTION: Summer Camp Guide

Mayfaire Town Center; 820 Town Center Drive, Wilmington, NC 28405 www.thestemlabs.com 910-839-8019 Weekly camps, Running June 11th through August 24th Half-day and Whole-day Camps for K-8th graders Advanced Workshops and Leadership Academy Camps for 8-12th graders Transportation Provided: No Category: Chemistry, Robotics, 3-D printing, Computer Technology, Biotechnology, Zoology, Engineering, Microbiology, Forensics, and more! Premium academic enrichment camps held in brand new student learning laboratories. Visit www.thestemlabs.com for complete list of over 40 summer camp topics covering science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Camp themes are presented as fun, age-appropriate, yet challenging lessons encouraging hands-on and immersive learning experiences. Also releasing middle and high-school level advanced STEM workshops and our exclusive student Leadership Academy. All campers in our one-of-a kind

Mermaid Surf Co.

All-girls Surf Lessons, Camps, Parties, and More! www. MermaidSurfCo.com

program learn directly from local and visiting STEM professionals from around the country. Limited spots available, so register online today!

UNCW MarineQuest

601 S College Rd Wilmington, NC 28403-5630 910-962-2640 uncw.edu/marinequest Ages: 4 - 17 Session Dates: June 10, 2018 – August 3, 2018 Transportation provided: No Type of camp: Summer, half-day commuter, full-day commuter, full-day residential Categories for camps: marine science, academic Description: MarineQuest summer camps are designed to make the learning process fun and engaging while providing real hand-on, field-based marine science opportunities for students ages 4 to 17. MarineQuest offers over 30 unique curriculum programs that are age appropriate and include a variety of topics that are sure to please.

UNCW Engineering Expectations

601 S College Rd Wilmington, NC 28403-5630 910-962-2640 uncw.edu/engineeringexpectations Ages 4 - 17 Session Dates: June 18, 2018 – August 3, 2018 Transportation provided: No Type of camp Summer, half-day commuter, full-day commuter Categories for camps: engineering, academic Description: Engineering Expectations is designed to hook kids on engineering by engaging them in creative thinking and out-of-the-box problem solving. We use a project based learning philosophy and have students complete hands-on engineering challenges through the use of the engineering design cycle.

Wilmington School of Ballet

910-794-9590 www.wilmingtonschoolofballet.com ages: 3+ Transportation: no Type of Camp: half day Categories: arts Princess camps (ages 3-5), summer class sessions (ages 3 adult), ballet intensives (intermediate-advanced). Princess camps feature dress-up, runway, make-overs, story time, and real princess visits. Summer session is a great way to try ballet or keep training through the summer. Ballet intensives feature master teachers for the intermediate and advanced ballet student.

YMCA Day Camps at Wilmington Family YMCA

Drop-In Child Care & After School Center

Drop In Care, After School Center with free van service and homework help, Drop-In Summer Camps, affordable rates, friendly & attentive staff. Children ages 12 months and up. Open at 7:45 M-F.

CHECK OUT OUR SUMMER CAMP!

7946 Market Street #200 Wilmington, NC 28411

910-319-7879 www.PNPlayhouse.com

18 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

2710 Market St. Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 251-9622 www.ymcasenc.org/camp Camp Type: Youth Day Camp, Leaders In Training Camp,

Preschool Camp, Swim Camps, Babysitting Camp, Art Camp, Soccer Camp, Flag Football Camp, Girls on the Run Camp, Halo Hoops Basketball Camp and Water Adventures Camp. Ages: 3-15 Transportation Provided: No Description: Trading stories and sharing a favorite book with a new friend. Being greeted with smiles and high-fives from staff, teammates and friends. Always fitting in, just for being you. This is what Y’s summer camps are all about- ensuring kids get more out of their summer break and having the BEST SUMMER EVER!

YMCA Day Camps in Leland, NC

TBA (910) 251-9622 www.ymcasenc.org/camp Camp Type: Youth Day Camp and Leaders In Training Camp Ages: 5-15 Transportation Provided: No Description: Trading stories and sharing a favorite book with a new friend. Being greeted with smiles and high-fives from staff, teammates and friends. Always fitting in, just for being you. This is what Y’s summer camps are all about- ensuring kids get more out of their summer break and having the BEST SUMMER EVER!

YMCA Day Camps at Midtown YMCA

709 George Anderson Dr. Wilmington, NC 28412 (910) 251-9622 www.ymcasenc.org Camp Type: Youth Day Camp, Leaders In Training Camp, Halo Hoops Basketball Camp, Soccer Camp and Kids Tri Club Ages: 5-15 Transportation Provided: No Description: Trading stories and sharing a favorite book with a new friend. Being greeted with smiles and high-fives from staff, teammates and friends. Always fitting in, just for being you. This is what Y’s summer camps are all about- ensuring kids get more out of their summer break and having the BEST SUMMER EVER!

YMCA Camps at Camp Kirkwood

709 George Anderson Dr. Wilmington, NC 28412 (910) 251-9622 www.ymcasenc.org/campkirkwood Camp Type: Youth Day Camp, Teen Day Camp, Girls on the Run Residential Camp, STRIDE Residential Camp, Soccer Residential Camp, Leaders In Training Residential Camp and YMCA Residential Camp Ages: 5-15 Transportation Provided: Yes Description: Trading stories and sharing a favorite book with a new friend. Being greeted with smiles and high-fives from staff, teammates and friends. Always fitting in, just for being you. This is what Y’s summer camps are all about- ensuring kids get more out of their summer break and having the BEST SUMMER EVER!

ENGINEERING EXPECTATIONS STEM Summer Programs for ages 4-17

uncw.edu/youth 910.962.2640

An EEO/AA Institution

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Calming First Time Camper Jitters

his time of year is often exciting for kids as the end of school is nearing and camp is just around the corner. It’s to be expected that children preparing to go off to sleep away camp for the first time may display some anticipatory anxiety. Typically, however, the excitement of a new adventure outweighs the anxiety that goes along with leaving home and trying something new. If your child is talking about feeling nervous to go away, is having a harder time falling asleep, or perhaps just seems to need a little extra affection in the next few weeks there are several things you can do to ease your child’s anxiety about leaving home. • Allow your child to express their worries without giving these worries too much attention. You do not want to be talking about worries morning noon and night! Set aside a specific time each day to talk about whatever worries your child may be feeling. If worries come up at other times during the day show you understand and empathetically suggest to your child that you talk about them during your special talk time.

• This is a great time to be practicing! Send your child on sleepovers to help get them used to the idea of being away from home. Once they know they can spend a night or two away from you they will feel an increased sense of confidence about their ability to leave home. • Plan a special day to shop for last minute camp essentials. Make it fun and memorable by making a pit stop for ice cream or allowing your child to pick out a special treat to bring on the bus with them. • Talk about your camp experience with enthusiasm and excitement. Stay away from stories about overcoming your own homesickness and share stories about late night campfires and color war instead. • Teach your child some basic relaxation skills such as deep breathing or imagining a relaxing place. Encourage them to use these tools before coming to you when they are feeling anxious at home. This will help them to know they can calm themselves down without your help.

• Model confidence in them! Show your child that you are confident that they will get through their worried feelings. Remind them of examples of times they were brave in the past. You are their cheerleader!

• Give your child a transitional object to take with them on the bus ride – a bus note from you or a special surprise that you have packed in their backpack.

• Ask the camp to give you names of children who may be on your child’s bus or in their bunk. Knowing one person ahead of time or just that you will have someone to sit with on the bus ride to camp can alleviate lots of anxiety in your child.

• Keep your goodbye short and sweet! Long goodbyes draw out the anxious feelings kids have about your departure. v Source: www.pacpsychnyc.com

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Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 19

FAMILY TRAVEL

THE SECRET TO TRAVELING MORE AND SPENDING LESS

ummer is here and instead of just daydreaming about the trips you want to take, here are some ways to actually afford those dream family vacations!

Practice Slow Travel This means spending more time in less places. Instead of racing from one end of a country to another, get to know a region well. Undertaking too many flights, bus trips, train journeys and driving long distances can really eat into your budget. So slow down, take more in, and discover all the cool stuff available.

Be Flexible with Your Flight Dates If possible, give yourself the best chance to capture any of the cheap flights when the prices fluctuate by searching a couple of days, or even weeks, either side of your preferred departure date. A few booking engines that are easy to use include: Skyscanner – provides instant comparison on flight prices for over 600,000 routes. Kayak – another meta search site that compares hundreds of sites at once. Vayama – specializes in cheap international flights.

Rent an Apartment Apartments are amazing for families due to extra living space and a kitchen so you can save on food. AirBnB is a good way to get low-cost vacation rentals and sublets from locals in 180 countries.

WWOOF WWOOF or WWOOFING stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms. It is a worldwide network of organizations and they link volunteers with organic farmers. In return for volunteer help, WWOOF hosts offer food, accommodation and opportunities to learn about organic lifestyles. Check out www.wwoof.org for more information.

Do a Home Exchange The home exchange strategy is possibly best for families who are looking to base themselves in another country or state for an agreed period of time. Just like the name suggests, you stay in their house whilst they stay in yours.

Eat locally

Flying at unpopular hours, such as the red-eye or early in the AM increases your chance of getting discounted flights.

Street markets let you taste the local food for cheap, but make sure you know how to avoid getting sick from unsanitary conditions. To avoid spending too much on restaurant meals, choose places that locals tend to frequent.

Book Direct

Skip Hotels

Adjust Your Times for Flying

Call the hotel directly or go straight to the airline’s website. A last minute phone call directly to a hotel, or hostel, asking about cheap rooms can prove fruitful. They don’t like having empty rooms so will discount. Same with airlines,once you have looked at all the flight search websites and found the cheapest price, as a last resort go direct to that airline’s own website. Many of the airlines have lower fares that you can only get when you book online at their site, or buy an e-ticket.

20 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

You might think hostels only accommodate students, but international organizations such as Hostelling International and Youth Hostel Association welcome all ages. Hostels often offer amenities such as free Wi-Fi, and sometimes they offer free breakfast. Bigger rooms with 10 to 20 people tend to have the lowest prices, but if you want more personal space, private rooms may be available. v

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OUR PETS

Protect Your Pets from Heatstroke By Kimberly Blaker Car interiors heat up quickly Studies have found that within only 10 minutes, car interiors can heat up by nearly 20° Fahrenheit. Even for those smart pet owners who would never leave their pet in the car on a warm day, there’s still the potential for danger. There have been many documented cases where a pet owner has unintentionally left a pet in the car because the pet is sleeping quietly in the back. To prevent such an incident, always place your pet’s leash on top of your purse or in a conspicuous place so when you get out of the car, you’re reminded Felix or Fido is in the vehicle.

Exercise in hot or sunny weather poses increased risk Dogs are also particularly prone to heat exhaustion or heatstroke when they’re overexercised, especially during hot weather or even on mild, sunny days. As mentioned above, certain breeds are particularly prone. Always monitor your dog’s behavior. If it begins to pant or drool or wants to stop, don’t push it. Give your dog the rest and shade it needs.

What to do if your pet overheats If your pet is experiencing heat exhaustion or shows signs of heatstroke or hyperthermia, you should get your pet out of the heat and sun immediately. Move your pet into some shade or preferably air conditioning. In addition, for a dog, you can use a hose or put the dog in a tub of cool, but not cold water. Since most cats hate baths, instead try just dipping your cat’s feet in a sink of cool water. You can also wet a towel and rub your cat or dog down concentrating especially on the head, neck, and underside of the legs. Although it might sound helpful to feed your pet ice or icy cold water, it’s dangerous to cool down an overheated animal in this manner.

What to do if you see a pet left in a hot car In the state of North Carolina, the law allows for a good samaritan to take action to protect or save the life of an animal left in a hot vehicle. If you see a pet left in a parked car in temperatures that could easily escalate inside the cabin, or if an animal shows signs of distress, call 911. Also, you can go into the store where the car is parked and ask that the owner of the vehicle be paged over the store intercom.

The Bow Wow Luau & The Cat’s Meow Mark your calendar for Sunday, June 24th, 6:30 p.m. for The 2018 Bow Wow Luau & The Cat’s Meow, a Night of Hope for Homeless and Abused Dogs and Cats in our Community! Celebrate Summer by wearing your best Luau attire or island-wear in the tropical setting of The Bluewater Waterfront Grill, Wrightsville Beach, for a night of fun—all to save the lives of homeless pets. The Embers will be playing fun and festive beach music to dance to or just enjoy listening to their feel-good music! The Embers are truly one of the finest entertainment experiences of our lifetime and their show will put joy in your step and beach music in your soul! Heavy island-style hors d’oeuvres will be served and we will feature many incredible live and silent auction items to bid on. Proceeds will benefit the animals in desperate need through local animal rescue organizations. Tickets are only $45 in advance and $50 at the door. Tickets will be available at Woof Gang Baker, Lumina Commons and Porter’s Neck Veterinary Hospital. More Info can be found at www.thebowwowluau.com.

Pet of the Month

Kimberly is expecting her first baby in June and her 1 year old pit bull/staffordshire terrier, Jameson, was a big part of her maternity photo shoot. Kimberly has had Jameson since he was 5 weeks old. She rescued him from a breeder in Sanford, NC that was giving away their puppies way too early and she even bottle fed him the first few days he was home. Jameson is obsessed with tennis balls and it’s almost as if he can smell them when they’re anywhere near him. He digs them out from under the couch and barks at the closet door if he knows someone bought tennis balls and put them away in there. He’s terrified of the vacuum cleaner and the broom and dustpan and goes to war with them whenever they are brought out. Jameson’s new baby brother is due June 8th and Kimberly is hoping Jamo adjusts to no longer being the center of attention.

We all love to show off our nonhuman family members, and now is your chance to have a bigger audience! Send in your pet photos to danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com with a little information about their unique personality and how they fit in to your family, and they may be featured in an upcoming issue! www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 21

SPECIAL SECTION: Preschool and Childcare

Choosing Between Alternative Preschool Curricula W

License Check. Only consider options that are licensed by the state regulatory agency for all center-based programs and family child care homes.

Emergent Curriculum: A process where teachers plan activities and

Visitor Policy. View the school calendar, and learn about family activities, volunteer opportunities, and their visitor policy. They should have an open visitor policy for parents.

projects based on the specific group of children they are working with, taking into account their skills, needs, and interests.

Daily Schedule. The program should follow the individual schedule of each

e need a preschool revolution. There aren’t enough preschools to meet demand, and studies have found that only 8% to 10% of preschools are considered high in quality. There are many excellent options - but how can parents “hack” the preschool search to find them? First it is important to understand a few key terms in preschool educational approaches:

Reggio Emilia Curriculum: A project-based curriculum, lessons are

Next, consider this checklist when visiting potential preschools:

baby, so that they eat when they’re hungry, sleep when they’re tired, and are not trapped in a bouncy seat the entire day. For toddlers and preschoolers, a more structured day with a predictable schedule and routine is best.

based on the interest of the students. If children playing outside encounter a flower and start to ask the teacher questions about how it grows, instead of directly answering the questions, the teacher encourages the group to “find out together.” The class may then build a garden.

Outdoor Time. How often do they take the children outside? Ideally it will be daily - even multiple times per day.

Montessori Curriculum: Emphasizes learning as a process that cannot

Televisions. A preschool with a TV is a big no no - minus a few excep-

be determined by a child’s age. Instead, learning is a process that is determined by the rate and speed at which a child can acquire one skill before moving on to another skill.

tions. This signals lack of engagement and activities for children. v

Nature Based Curriculum: Programs that fuse early childhood and environmental education to develop a child’s lifelong connection with the natural world.

22 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

Mia Pritts, a childhood education expert who was in the team of preschool pioneers that started the groundbreaking campus preschool system at Google, Stanford, and Pixar. She is the ‎Head of Early Care and Education at Wonderschool [wonderschool.com] a digital marketplace of boutique early child care programs that makes it easy for parents to find excellent quality schools.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Childcare and Preschool Listings 2018-2019 Gym & Learn Preschool Program Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road, Wilmington, NC 28401 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com contact@carolinagymnasticsacademy.com 2018-2019 Gym & Learn Preschool Program BEST preschool program in Wilmington! Developmental academics, gymnastics class, socialization, arts & crafts, outside free play. Boys & Girls, ages 3-5. Minimum 3 days per week. $40 non-refundable deposit will hold your place. 9/4/18-5/24/19

Island Montessori Children’s School 6339 Carolina Beach Road 910-707-1200 cdworshak@islandmontessorischool.com www.im.school/preschool At IMS, we know that choosing an educational program for your child is the most important decision you will make in these young formative years. For over one hundred years Montessori education has proved to be the best approach in nurturing the social, emotional, intellectual and academic growth in children. As educators, we recognize each child as an individual waiting to blossom and grow! At IMS, the teacher observes and recognizes what ignites your child’s passions and guides him into purposeful work and discovery in all areas of life. Come visit and see the wonders of Montessori. You will be amazed. Jenkins Preschool Academy 7888 Market Street Wilmington 28411 Contact: Alethea Jenkins 910-367-0287 ajenkinsjpa@gmail.com www.jpawilmington.com Ages: 18months-4yr/preK Availability: limited for all age groups Comments: Also offer summer camp sessions; Call for a tour. Voted a Wilmington Parent Family Favorite 4 years in a row! Pax Natura Academy 4202 Wilshire Blvd. Wilmington, NC 910-791-2080 www.childcarenetwork.net/159 Early Foundations Infant & Toddler Programs. Preschool for 2 & 3 yo. Kindergarten Prep for 4 & 5 yo. After School Program. www.wilmingtonparent.com

Now Enrolling Half and Full Day PreK3 and Prek4

Porter’s Neck Play House 7946 Market Street #200 Wilmington, NC 28411 910-319-7879 pnplayhouse@gmail.com www.PNPlayhouse.com Porter’s Neck Playhouse is a drop in daycare center for children 12 months to 12 years. We offer a safe, fun, clean environment for kids to have supervised free play, make friends and memories and enjoy creative fun all while their parents move about their busy lives. Please call for more information on after-school activities, summer camps, and our daily schedule for drop-in care. 910-319-7879. St. Mary Catholic School Early Childhood Center 217 S. 4th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 910-762-5491, x140 linns@thestmaryparish.org www.thestmaryschool.org St. Mary Early Childhood Program offers a 1/2 or full day option for 3 & 4 year old students. SMECC offers a preschool experience where children have the freedom to play, learn, and interact with one another, discovering the wonders of God’s world in the course of a child-oriented day. The SMECC provides opportunities to form relationships - with God, teachers, and peers - and to grow in trust and respect while recognizing the worth of every individual. Students are encouraged to learn through discovery and exploration and by providing activities and resources based on developmentally appropriate learning goals. SMECC students develop self-confidence in a learning environment that affords opportunities for success and provides the freedom to fail without fear. Winter Park Presbyterian Preschool 4501 Wrightsville Avenue Wilmington, NC 28403 910-791-5893 preschool.wppc@gmail.com www.wppc-preschool.org Toddler- Pre-K; Limited Spaces Available For The 2018-2019 School Year; Art, Crafts, Kindermusik, Stretch-n-Grow; We are a half-day Christian preschool. We offer low student-teacher ratios, an experienced nurturing staff and a fun preschool environment. Our hands-on-learning approach to learning fully prepares our preschoolers for kindergarten. We use Creative Curriculum and Handwriting Without Tears. Kindermusik and Stretch-n-Grow classes are provided at no extra charge.

Academic Excellence in a Setting of Catholic Christian Values 217 South 4th Street • 910-762-5491 x140

www.thestmaryschool.org

ENROLL TODAY! SUMMER CAMPS AND CLASSES START JUNE 4TH! The Little Gym of Wilmington

132 Racine Drive, Unit 1 Wilmington, NC 28403

www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com 910-799-3771

Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 23

SPECIAL SECTION: Preschool and Childcare

Childcare Network 8 convenient locations in Wilmington, Southport and Leland 866-521-KIDS www.childcarenetwork.com Ages 6-weeks to 12-years

Early Childhood Center

SUMMER CAMP GYMNASTICS!

Simple Ways to Show Childcare Providers Your Appreciation by Rachael Moshman

SPECIAL SECTION: Preschool and Childcare

GO ONLINE TO SIGN UP NOW

BOYS do gymnastics, too! Book Your Party Now ~ call or go online

910-796-1896

www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com 3529 Carolina Beach Road

hildren begin learning from the moment they are born. The first years are the most important for brain development. Early experiences are the key to building the connections children will need for lifelong learning. It’s important to realize that the childcare specialists you leave your young child(ren) with while you go to work are NOT “babysitters”! They are constructing brains – very important work! You need to show these “brain contractors” appreciation for all they do for your family. Here are some easy, yet important, ways to show your appreciation: • Pay on time and in full. Don’t grumble about the cost.

Helping you decide

• Pick up your child promptly. It’s been a long day for your child and the childcare specialists. Get there as quickly as you can. Your child has missed you! • Be cheerful! Smile and greet the childcare specialists each morning and afternoon. • Be respectful of the schedule set for the children. For example, don’t bring your child late without breakfast and avoid picking your child up during naptime. Disrupting the schedule is stressful for the whole classroom. • Be respectful of the childcare specialist’s or director’s time. If you need to discuss something, ask when the best time to call or stop by would be.

Doctors and Dentists Healthcare Provider Guide

Coming in JuLY 2018

• Be organized. Make sure you immediately update your child’s file if your contact info has changed or health records expire. Return all forms and requests for supplies promptly. Make sure diaper bags and lunch boxes have everything they need each day. • Read the parent handbooks and be familiar with all the policies. Have a backup plan for if your child is ill and needs to stay home or needs to be picked up early due to illness. • Volunteer your time! Ask for ways you can help. If it is difficult for you to visit the center during your work day, perhaps you can help by preparing projects at home in the evening. • Congratulate childcare specialists when you hear they have attended training or completed courses. Their education and training benefits your child immensely! • Say, “thank you” and say it often! Don’t take anything for granted. The people who care for and teach your child work hard and a sincere “thank you” goes a long way. • Tell others that you are pleased with the care and education your child is receiving. Childcare is a business and word of mouth referrals are always a great way to show your satisfaction and appreciation. v

24 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

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Half Day Preschool & Summer Camp

Enroll now for 2018-2019 Half Day Preschool

• • • • •

Ages Toddler - Pre - Kindergarten Low Teacher/Child Ratio Nurturing & Fun Environment Kindermusik Classes Stretch-n-Grow Classes

Winter Park Presbyterian Preschool 791-5893 • 4501 Wrightsville Ave. www.wppc-preschool.org

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Turn ordinary into EXTRAORDINARY ! Pax Natura Academy is not your typical preschool! We specialize in school readiness with a focus on developing the whole child. Our programs are designed to highlight nature, community and diversity.

wilmingtonparent.com

4202 Wilshire Blvd. Wilmington, NC • 910-791-2080

Looking for Quality, Affordable Child Care?

Directories and Guides Summer Camps

You’re only a few clicks away from FInding the perfect Summer Camp! www.wilmingtonparent.com

We have many convenient locations in the following areas: Wilmington, NC Leland, NC & Southport, NC

910-557-2471

Our Schools Provide: Care for ages 6 weeks - 12 years • Structured Curriculum for all Ages • Young Achievers Afterschool • Transportation to and from School • Nutritious Meals and Snacks Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 25

SPECIAL SECTION: Preschool and Childcare

Find more resources at

YOUR HEALTH

ESOPHAGEAL CANCER SYMPTOMS AND HOPE

ancers that start in the esophagus are much more common in men than in women. Many of these cancers are linked to tobacco or alcohol use, or to excess body weight. People who suffer from reflux are also at a higher risk for developing this type of cancer. Treating people with reflux may help prevent Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer. Often, reflux is treated using drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as omeprazole (Prilosec®), lansoprazole (Prevacid®), or esomeprazole (Nexium®). Surgery might also be an option for treating reflux if the reflux is not controlled with medical therapy alone.

Symptoms Cancers of the esophagus are usually found because of the symptoms they cause. Diagnosis in people without symptoms is rare and usually accidental. Here are a few symptoms that should be warning signs to seek medical tests and advice. • Trouble Swallowing • Chest Pain • Weight Loss • Hoarseness • Chronic Cough

Hope Michelle Urban’s father passed away in September 2011 of Esophageal Cancer; he was only 60 years old. He was in pretty good health, just complained of hiccups, burping, and occasional heartburn. The family

26 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

had no idea that he was suffering from something much more serious. At 59 years old, he was diagnosed at stage 4 and given only 9-12 months to live. Because the symptoms are common, they are usually treated with various antacids and dismissed, and unfortunately not diagnosed in time to save lives. Michelle and her husband, DJ, both went to pharmacy school at UNCW and after graduation moved back to Wilmington because they love the area so much. They wanted to do something in her father’s memory, but also to give back to the local community and help prevent others from this same fate, so last year they opened a local chapter of the non-profit Esophageal Cancer Education Foundation, ECEF. One of ECEF’s missions is to bring awareness and educate the public and medical community about this disease. For their first big event under the new ECEF chapter, they are coordinating a Casino Night Fundraiser. This red carpet event will be held July 7, 2018 at the UNCW Burney Center from 6-11pm. It will be a night of casino play with various gaming tables, heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, silent auction, raffle prizes, 50/50, and a performance by Tom Gossin (another UNCW attendee), former frontman of the award-winning band Gloriana. The grand prize is a trip to Las Vegas! Tickets are now on sale, $75 each or 2/$125. If you are interested in purchasing a sponsorship for this event or tickets, visit www.fightec.org/events/in-memory-of-senecawhite-ottey. v

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FIT FAMILY

Family Hike As part of Clean Water Week, the Cape Fear Sierra Club is hosting a Family-Friendly Hike at Greenfield Lake. The club will lead a 4.5-mile paved hike around the lake to explore the diverse ecosystem of plants and animals (maybe even a gator sighting!) and pick up trash along the way. The standard Sierra Club liability waiver is required for all participants, but there is no charge for this guided hike. Participants should meet at the boathouse parking lot on June 3rd at 10am.

Ocean Safety For those who have grown up on the ocean, consider this a reminder, but for families that are new to the area, take note, the ocean is more than just a beautiful and exciting place to enjoy a summer day. We are always being reminded of rip currents, and everyone should research and learn about these dangers and how to escape them at www.weather.gov/ safety/ripcurrent, but rip currents arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only deadly beach hazard. Lightning is an often overlooked danger, lightning is a real beach hazard. The second greatest cause for lightning fatalities are beach activities! A couple of reasons: The sound of thunder is hidden by the sounds of the surf and people having fun, and Along the U.S. East Coast, people are generally facing to the ocean in the east but many storms come from the west. Head to a safe place immediately at any sign of an approaching or developing storm. Learn more about dangerous waves and other hazards and why you should never to turn your back on the ocean at www.weather.gov.

Halyburton Park Kayak Programs Once a month, Halyburton Park hosts a special kayak tour for older teens and adults. The next available is at Eagles Island on June 12th from 8:30 am - 11:30 am. These tours require preregistration and are for ages 16 and up. The Eagles Island tour paddles Sturgeon Creek to the Brunswick River and then offers an opportunity to explore the beauty of Eagle Island, 3,100 acres located between Leland and Wilmington. Along the way there will be plenty of opportunities to see wildlife and take in the scenic beauty of the river. The tour begins at Belville Riverwalk Park. Register and learn more at www. halyburtonpark.com.

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Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 27

SCHOOL NOTES

School’s Out! NEW HANOVER COUNTY: Traditional Schools: 6/8 - Last Day and Half Day for Students Year Round Schools: 6/14 - Last Day and Half Day for Students CFCI Charter School: 6/8 - Last Day and Full Day for Students

Hoggard Student Awarded Morehead-Cain Scholarship New Hanover County Schools congratulates Sanya Shah, a senior from Hoggard High School, for being awarded the prestigious Morehead-Cain Scholarship to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The Morehead-Cain is a four-year merit scholarship which includes full tuition, student fees, housing, meals, books, a laptop, miscellaneous supplies, and Discovery Funds to be used for education opportunities. Ms. Shah currently serves as the Hoggard Student Council vice president, a role that involves coordinating local events and serving as a liaison between students and faculty. She is also a volunteer and fundraiser for Homes of Hope, an organization that has rescued and educated nearly 2,000 girls who have been orphaned, abandoned, or involved in human trafficking in India. In addition to her community service, Sanya is an awardwinning singer and is highly ranked in the South Korean martial art Soo Bahk Do. While at Carolina, she plans to study Finance and Psychology. She is the daughter of Satish and Ash Shah of Wilmington.

BRUNSWICK: Traditional Schools: 6/8 - Last Day of School Year Round Schools: 6/8 - Last Day of School PENDER: Traditional Schools: 6/8 - Last Day and Half Day for Students Year Round Schools: 6/1 - Last Day and Half Day for Students Visit www.nhcs.net, www.co.brunswick.k12.nc.us or www.pendercountyschools.net for more information.

NHCS Receives $1.5 Million Ant-Bullying Eyes Grant New Hanover County Schools has been awarded a $1.5 million grant for anti-bullying training and support at five district middle schools. Murray, Myrtle Grove, Trask, Holly Shelter, and Williston are the participating schools. NHCS is partnering with the National School Climate Center and Facing History and Ourselves, https://www.facinghistory.org/, on this project. Empowering Youth Engaging Schools (EYES) is a four-year initiative funded by The Harvey L. Miller Family Foundation that combines the National School Climate Center’s approach to comprehensive school climate improvement with the Facing History and Ourselves’ instructional approach to build cultural competency and reduce bullying behaviors.

Summer Food Program New Hanover County Schools will be offering free summer lunches to all children under the age of 18. No registration or ID is required for children to come and enjoy a guaranteed healthy meal. There are 3 ways to find a free meal site: 1. Text FoodNC to 877-877 2. Call Toll Free 1-866-3hungry 3. Visit NoKidHungryNC.org Visit www.nhcs.net for more information.

28 | June 2018 | Wilmington Parent

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PEANUT GALLERY

Savannah K. 6/13 • 5yo

Grayson

6/20 • 6yo

Victor 6/23 • 2yo

Corbin B. 5/13 • 9yo

Mia 5/1 • 7yo

Lauren 5/9 • 11yo

Bailey G. 6/1 • 6yo

Jason M. 6/21 • 1yo

Caleb B. 6/26 • 7yo

Charity M. 5/24 • 10yo

Addison P.

6/21• 2yo

Jakob F. 6/12 • 9yo

DOES YOUR CHILD OR GRANDCHILD HAVE A BIRTHDAY IN JULY? Honor them by having their photo published in Wilmington Parent. Here's how: e-mail image (size not to exceed 1mb) to birthday@wilmingtonparent.com. Deadline for publication: 06/12. We have a limited number of spots, so if you sent your child’s picture and do not see it Evan E. 6/20 • 2yo www.wilmingtonparent.com

Cloe K. 6/18 • 9yo

this issue, please check back next month! Wilmington Parent | June 2018 | 29

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